Show notes
In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Deborah Simon. Deborah is a Brooklyn-based sculptor and embroiderer known for her hauntingly beautiful bears and rabbits that blend faux fur, taxidermy and anatomy.We talk about her early influences, how she went from painting to sculpture, and why she’s so fascinated by the tension between the cuddly teddy bear and the deadly wild bear - plus how camping trips and natural history books shaped her work.Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:30 – The Evolution of Needlework in Contemporary Art00:04:27 – The Intersection of Art and Science00:09:34 – Balancing Accuracy and Aesthetic in Art00:12:10 – The Value of Artistic Process and Rejection00:17:32 – Resistance as a Path to Creativity00:24:55 – Creative Challenges in Sculpture00:26:41 – Audiobooks and Their Influence on Art00:28:54 – Exploring Literature and History00:31:31 – Music Preferences in the Studio00:35:04 – Television and Film Recommendations00:39:45 – The Art of Set DesignLinks:Website: deborahsimon.netInstagram: deborahasimonIntro music is Looking Like Me 1 by David Björk via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comAnd follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
